Sunlight Peak peak
Sunlight Peak rises to 14,059 ft in San-Juan-Mountains within the San Juan Mountains range.
With an elevation of approximately 14,059 feet (4,285 meters), it ranks as one of Colorado's esteemed fourteeners. The peak is part of the rugged Needle Mountains, which are known for their jagged and picturesque formations.
During the winter season, Sunlight Peak experiences a substantial snowpack. Snow accumulation can vary depending on weather conditions, but it is not uncommon for the mountain to receive several feet of snow. This makes it an attractive destination for backcountry skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts.
Located in close proximity to Sunlight Peak are several creeks and rivers that benefit from its runoff. One such waterway is Needle Creek, which flows below the mountain's southern slopes. This creek is known for its pristine waters and provides a source of freshwater for the surrounding area.
The name "Sunlight Peak" has an intriguing history. It is said to have been named by early explorers who were struck by the way the mountain's peak glowed in the sunlight, creating a stunning visual effect. The lore surrounding the peak includes stories of hidden treasure and mysterious disappearances, adding an air of mystery and adventure to its already captivating presence in the Rocky Mountains.
For trail conditions and access, search Wikipedia or the local land manager's site. Browse other peaks in the San-Juan-Mountains range.
Snowpack near Sunlight Peak
Snow water equivalent and snowpack depth at SNOTEL stations near the peak. Best proxy for what's currently sitting on the summit.
| SNOTEL station | Snowpack | View |
|---|---|---|
| Middle Creek | 1 in | → |
| Nohrsc Red Mountain Pass | 1 in | → |
| Weminuche Creek | 2 in | → |
| El Diente Peak | 1 in | → |
| Nohrsc Mesa Lakes | 1 in | → |
| Overland Res. | 49 in | → |
| Nohrsc North Lost Trail | 1 in | → |
| Vallecito | 7 in | → |
| Nohrsc Overland Res. | 1 in | → |
| Columbus Basin | 1 in | → |
| Nohrsc Wager Gulch | 1 in | → |
| Beartown | 1 in | → |
Streamflow near Sunlight Peak
USGS streamgauges in the basin drained by this peak. Spring snowmelt from the summit feeds these flows.
| Gauge | Streamflow | View |
|---|---|---|
| Piedra River Near Arboles | 309 cfs | → |
| Los Pinos River At La Boca | 69 cfs | → |
| Florida River At Bondad | -888 cfs | → |
| Los Pinos River Near Ignacio | 7 cfs | → |
| Spring Creek At La Boca | 40 cfs | → |
| San Juan River Near Carracas | 689 cfs | → |
| Animas River Near Cedar Hill | 882 cfs | → |
Plan around incoming weather
Same NOAA / yr.no feed Snoflo's iOS app uses. Watch the precipitation column -- snow at this elevation typically lags the radar signature by a few hours.
Next 5 days, hour by hour
Temperature line with weather symbols on top, snow + rain accumulation as columns, humidity as a dotted line.
5-day forecast table
Every 3 hours, broken out across temperature, snow, rain, humidity, and wind.
| Time | Condition | Temp (°F) | Snow (in) | Rain (in) | Humidity (%) | Wind (mps) | Wind dir |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Loading detailed forecast… | |||||||
15-day forecast
Daily temperatures, snow, and rain projected over the next two weeks.
What's around Sunlight Peak
Ski areas, river runs, fishing spots, campgrounds, parks, reservoirs, and boat launches within driving distance of Sunlight Peak.
Ski areas
- Sandia Peak Ski Area
- Wolf Creek Ski Area
- Snowmass
- Breckenridge Ski Resort
- Silverton Mountain
- Steamboat Ski Resort
River runs
- Animas River
- Rincon La Osa--Headwaters To Confluence With Los Pinos
- Flint Creek--Headwaters To Confluence With Los Pinos
- Lake Creek--Headwaters To Confluence With Los Pinos
- Sierra Vandera--Headwaters To Confluence With Los Pinos
- Confluence With Rincon La Vaca And North Fork To Northern Line Of Granite Peak Ranch
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